Deputy Premier Diana Whalen is travelling to France with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to attend the Sunday, April 9, commemorative ceremony to mark the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

“It is a privilege to represent my fellow Nova Scotians and to join with other Canadians, including those who have served or serve in the Canadian Armed Forces, in marking this historic anniversary,” said Ms. Whalen, on behalf of Premier Stephen McNeil, Minister responsible for Military Relations.

The Battle of Vimy Ridge lasted four days. It saw four Canadian divisions fight together as a unified fighting force for the first time. While Canada suffered heavy casualties during the battle, the victory over German forces is regarded as a turning point in Canadian military history.

“Canadians owe a debt of gratitude to those who so bravely fought on our behalf 100 years ago,” said Ms. Whalen. “Nova Scotians are proud of the role the two Nova Scotia battalions played in this battle and shall never forget their service and sacrifice.”

The 85th Battalion (Nova Scotia Highlanders), fought as part of the 11th Brigade, 4th Canadian Division when it captured Hill 145 where the Vimy Monument now stands. The other Nova Scotia battalion that fought in the battle was the 25th Battalion (Nova Scotia Rifles), as part of the 2nd Division.

Over 650,000 Canadians served in the First World War.

The commemorative event will take place at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial. Commemorative events marking the anniversary will also take place at various locations across the province.